Allergy & asthma for children

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Allergy center

Allergies 101

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The immune systems of allergy sufferers can be a little over-reactive and sensitive, releasing chemicals like histamine to rid the body of allergens.

The job of a chemical like histamine is to push the allergens out of the body, using your nose, eyes and mouth as escape routes. This in turn creates swelling and inflammation along with annoying allergy symptoms.

Allergy symptoms
Allergies are usually caused by something in the air we are breathing.
Most common allergy symptoms include:

Causes of allergies
Unfortunately, allergens are everywhere, and they are the root cause of allergies. Examples of common allergens include pollen, dust mites, mold spores and pet dander. Of course, there is no way to completely avoid or eliminate allergens, but knowing what allergens affect you will help you reduce them.

There are two categories of common allergies, seasonal and year-round. Use our seasonal vs. year-round allergy guide to find out when you need relief most.

ID your allergies

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Allergies stem from many different sources but there are two basic types: seasonal allergies and perennial allergies.

Seasonal allergies are triggered by pollen during certain times in a season. They are mostly caused by airborne allergens such as pollen during spring, summer and autumn. Grass pollen is considered by many to be the most common cause of seasonal allergies.

People affected by perennial allergies have allergic symptoms throughout the year. These are caused by constant exposure to everyday allergens such as pet dander, dust mites and mold spores.

Stop the Symptoms With FLONASE® Allergy ReliefWhen people with seasonal or perennial allergies are exposed to allergens, their body releases a group of chemicals or allergic substances that can cause symptoms such as:

Because FLONASE® Allergy Relief helps block six allergic substances, it offers 24-hour relief for all of these symptoms.

Around the house

1. Clean surfaces regularly
Use single-use dust rags and damp mops to clean. If cleaning rags are used, make sure to wash them in hot water after each use.

2. Rinsing of the sinuses
Washing of the nasal cavity with saline solution, otherwise known as nasal irrigation, can be completed daily to help promote healthy sinuses.

3. Air filters
Best to consider using a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter in rooms you spend a lot of time in, especially your bedroom.

4. Remove the mold
If you discover mold on a hard surface, clean it with a mixture of water and detergent, and let it air dry completely.

5. Keep windows closed
Keeping windows closed helps keep allergens outside. If it gets too warm, use an air conditioner. And remember to clean and or change your air conditioner filters regularly.

6. Remove shoes
Avoid tracking dust and other allergens into the home by leaving shoes by the front door.

7. Hot wash & dry
Wash bedding in hot water and dry on high heat once a week.

8. Chores, then out the door
Protect yourself from indoor allergens when doing housework by wearing a mask. Afterward, make sure to step outside for a little while to avoid the allergens you may have stirred up while cleaning.

9. Clean & dehumidify
Dehumidifiers collect and help reduce moisture in damp basements. Always remember to empty the water and keep the unit clean.

10. Vacuum & filter
It’s best to use a vacuum with a HEPA filter that can help reduce the allergens in the air inside your home.